Mrs. Barnes has consistently had a pulse of 78 and regular. Today ...

[Sportsfan2111]

Mrs. Barnes has consistently had a pulse of 78 and regular. Today on rounds, her pulse is 66 and irregular. You will
 
  a. Do an apical pulse for 1 full minute
  b. Withhold the medication and call the physi-cian or charge nurse
  c. Administer the medication and plan on re-checking in 1 hour
  d. Both A and B

Question 2

Mrs. Barnes is no longer able to swallow pills. The pharmacy has converted all her medications to liquid form. The dosage for her digoxin is now
 
  a. Decreased
  b. Increased
  c. The same
  d. Subject to fluctuations

[TDubDCFL]

Answer to Question 1

D
A sudden change in rate or rhythm should be reported to the physician. As a responsible LPN, you should suspect digitoxicity and withhold the medication until speaking with the physician.

Answer to Question 2

A
Absorption levels increase with the change from pill to elixir. Therefore, a decreased dosage is used to prevent digoxin toxicity. Answers B, C, and D are incorrect.